The Federal Government has dismissed claims that Nigeria has agreed to accept foreign nationals under a new migration partnership with the United Kingdom, describing such reports as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by the Presidency, the government clarified that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on immigration cooperation was signed during President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to the UK, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and promoting safe, regulated migration.
According to the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the 12-page agreement does not obligate Nigeria to receive non-Nigerian nationals, stressing that only verified citizens of either country would be subject to repatriation under clearly defined procedures.
The Presidency explained that individuals marked for return must undergo strict identification and verification processes, and where errors occur, such persons would be returned to the requesting country at its own cost.
It further noted that the agreement prioritises dignity and respect for returnees, with provisions safeguarding their human rights and fundamental freedoms throughout the process.
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Under the MoU, both countries will cooperate in ensuring the safe and orderly return of nationals who no longer have legal rights to remain in the other country, while also providing reintegration support.
Returnees will be allowed to travel with their legally acquired belongings and given adequate time to settle their affairs before departure, an improvement on previous arrangements.
The government also clarified that the Nigeria Immigration Service retains exclusive authority over documentation, dismissing claims that such powers have been ceded to the UK.
The agreement outlines support mechanisms including accommodation, transportation, education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship opportunities for returnees.
Similar to agreements signed in 2012, 2017, and 2022, the MoU will run for an initial five-year period, subject to renewal.
The Presidency urged media organisations to verify information before publication to avoid misleading the public on sensitive national issues.
Editor: Ada Ononye
